Investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into various Fake India Currency Notes (FICNs) rackets busted has provided evidence of Pakistan’s role. A study estimated that fake currency worth `70 crore enters India every year. The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) estimated that overall there are 250 fake notes in around 10 lakh pieces.

A panel constituted by the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL) had told the NIA that the numbering box in the FICNs was unique as it was manufactured by only two companies – ‘Atlantic 2 Asia’ and ‘Leibenger’. Besides a special printing machine called ‘Numerata’ is used to print to these numbers.

The experts said Pakistan was also using same numbering box in its currency notes with similar fonts. “Numerata is a very costly machine which be afforded by only sovereign states only,” said an investigator. An ISI study pegged the quantum of counterfeit currency circulating in the nation at `400 crore at any time.

“We have shut the Pakistani shop of fake Indian currency,” said MOS home Kiren Rijiju.